Project Light of Manatee, Inc.

STEM Education

Most of today’s fastest-growing professions require significant scientific or mathematical training. Positions in those fields are increasing far more quickly than in the overall job market, and they pay nearly three times as much as the average job. But Florida, like much of the United States, isn’t preparing its children for that future. That’s why Gulf Coast Community Foundation is investing more than $2.5 million in a five-year initiative at eight secondary schools in Sarasota and Charlotte counties. It aims to improve student achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, known collectively to educators and industry as STEM. Partnering with the two school districts, businesses, individual donors, and others, Gulf Coast is equipping local students with innovative tools, technology, and hands-on learning experiences that will make science and math relevant and exciting, allowing them to soar in STEM subjects.